Tailor-made active Machu Picchu trip in Peru
PeruCreate your own active Machu Picchu adventure with one of our thoughtfully crafted Peru trips, designed to combine authentic community stays, invigorating outdoor experiences, and meaningful cultural immersion. Every element can be tailored to your interests while supporting local hosts and traveling with intention.
Choose the dates, pace, and activities that match your curiosity and fitness level, then secure a personalized itinerary that transforms an iconic destination into a deeply personal journey. Take the first step today and craft a Peruvian experience that honors culture, challenges your spirit, and rewards you with a lasting connection.
Active Machu Picchu trip highlights
- Sunrise ascent to Machu Picchu: Rise early for a guided, active ascent to Machu Picchu at sunrise.
- Authentic Sacred Valley encounters: Explore the Sacred Valley’s local markets and family-run haciendas.
- Guided Inca trail hiking: Hike ancient Inca trails with a private guide, choosing a custom route that balances challenge and cultural immersion.
- Handpicked local accommodations: Stay in handpicked boutique lodges and family-run homestays.
- Seamless, tailor-made logistics: Enjoy seamless logistics ensuring your tailor-made active Machu Picchu trip is effortless and deeply rewarding.
| Day | Location | Activity | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cusco → Santa María | • Transfer to Abra Málaga with scenic stop • Downhill mountain biking on the Inca Jungle Trail • Visit Huamanmarca ruins • Coca, coffee, and tropical fruit tasting • Class III rafting experience • Dinner in Santa María | Santa María |
| 2 | Santa María → Santa Teresa | • Transfer to the Inca Trail start • Jungle hike on original Inca paths • Waterfalls and orchid spotting • Community lunch with native ingredients • Relax at Cocalmayo hot springs • Transfer to Santa Teresa | Santa Teresa |
| 3 | Santa Teresa → Aguas Calientes | • Morning zipline adventure • Hike along Urubamba River to Hidroeléctrica • Optional train to Aguas Calientes • Scenic views of Putucusi and Machu Picchu Sanctuary | Aguas Calientes |
| 4 | Machu Picchu → Cusco | • Sunrise visit to Machu Picchu • Guided archaeological tour • Hike Huayna Picchu • Train return to Cusco • Optional itinerary extension available | Cusco |
From Cusco to Santa María
Be picked up in Cusco and travel toward Abra Málaga Mountain, pausing briefly to take in sweeping highland views.
Your Peru travel adventure begins with an exhilarating downhill mountain bike ride along the Inca Jungle Trail. Cycle past remote villages, rushing rivers, and the Huamanmarca archaeological complex as the landscape shifts from cool mountain air to lush subtropical warmth.
Along the way, sample coca leaves, fresh coffee, and tropical fruits before arriving in Santa María. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided Class III rafting experience equipped with helmets and life jackets. Return to Santa María for dinner and an overnight stay.
Inca Trail to Santa Teresa
Your private transfer brings you to the starting point of the Inca Trail, where this adventurous Peru itinerary continues on foot through the lush high forest of the Inca jungle. Walk along original stone trail sections, passing waterfalls, wild orchids, and vibrant birdlife along the way.
Pause in a local community to enjoy a nourishing lunch of native fruits and Andean tubers. Later, unwind at the Cocalmayo hot springs with light snacks and a refreshing Cuzqueña beer before transferring to Santa Teresa for comfortable lodging and dinner.
Zipline and Inca Trail along Urubamba
After a hearty breakfast, begin the day with an exhilarating zipline experience as expert guides fit your safety equipment and prepare you for a thrilling ride above the valley.
Continue on foot toward Hidroeléctrica, with the option to take the train to Aguas Calientes at an additional cost. Walking alongside the Urubamba River, pass waterfalls and vibrant wildlife, from parrots and colorful insects to occasional sightings of peccaries.
With views of Putucusi and San Miguel mountains and the surrounding Historic Sanctuary, you are approaching one of the best places to visit in Peru.
Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu
Rise before dawn to take the bus up to Machu Picchu and arrive in time for sunrise over the citadel. Enjoy a guided archaeological tour that brings the ruins vividly to life, then hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu for panoramic views and unforgettable photos. After descending, take time to explore the site at your own pace.
In the afternoon, board the train from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco and unwind in the city’s evening warmth as your Peru trip continues. If you wish to extend your journey, our team can seamlessly design additional experiences across Peru to match your interests and schedule.
